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Retired Army major Jim Austin said: “The Regimental Association of The Queen’s Royal Hussars (The Queen’s Own and Royal Irish) is shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of John Winton.

“John joined The Queen’s Royal Irish Hussars in 1987 and served a full career with the Regiment retiring in 2010 in the rank of Warrant Officer Class 2.

John Winton (Image: Facebook)

“He served with the Regiment in Germany, UK and Canada and on operations in The Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq.

“John was a highly respected and popular soldier and will be dearly missed by his comrades.

“On behalf of The Chairman and all members of the Regimental Association we send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends on their loss. Mente et Manu.”

As well as a distinguished Army career in which he reached the rank of sergeant major, John was also a part-time firefighter in his hometown of Limavady.

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